Colossians 3:12-17
- Allan reiterated Paul’s way of thinking about the Christian life in terms of becoming who we already are in Christ, participating NOW in the new life of Christ in us. What does that new life in Christ look like and/or mean to you?
- What are your comments about the three assumptions that Allan said that Paul had:
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- The Christian life is active, not passive, “Now that we have this new life, how are we going to live?” What are the temptations to passivity in your Christian life?
- The transformation that is taking place is a process; we are not yet who we should finally be. In other words, direction is more important than position. Sanctification, a large theological word that means “becoming like Christ”, is a matter of daily dying to oneself. How can we help each other not grow discouraged as we walk together toward our completion?
- The real test of our maturity is our life together in community. Our life together in the church is a laboratory in which we learn how to love as Christ did. It is the proving ground of our claim to be Christ’s.
- Do you agree that Christian maturity comes best in our life together? If so, how?
- Allan mentioned that the word patience could literally be translated as large hearted. He made a comparison between one who has a large heart and the “Grinch Who Stole Christmas” whose heart was three sizes too small. What does it mean for a person to be large hearted?
- Allan concluded by reminding us about forgiveness, and the sharp words in Scripture, Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” He said, “When the nudge hits, do something about it then. Is there someone of whom you need to ask forgiveness?” Is there a time(s) when you felt the nudge and didn’t do anything about it? If so, do you feel this hindered the community(s) you were or are a part of?
- Why is gratitude, or thankfulness, so central to the Christian life?
